Overview
Marrickville Metro is getting its first major upgrade since 1987, taking over the abandoned warehouse next door in a massive development project that will cost upwards of $142 million. Construction began on Edinburgh Road last week, and, once completed, it'll increase the centre size by half — adding an additional 11,000 square-metres of dining and retail space and produce markets.
The project is being managed by AMP Capital, who is also responsible for the Quay Quarter Sydney development — a $2.7 billion lifestyle precinct near Circular Quay that'll include a 50-storey glass skyscraper and is slated for completion in late 2021.
The size upgrade will meet growing foot traffic needs — with the number of locals regularly using the centre expected to hit 440,000 by 2021 — as well as provide a new go-to dining and retail precinct for Marrickville locals. There will be a mix of indoor and al fresco dining options, with 44 new retailers set to join the space.
A render of the new-look Marrickville Metro.
The extension's focus is on a dedicated fresh food offering, which will feature a local produce market and "never before seen store concept" from Coles. This mysterious 'black label' outlet will complete the trifecta, with existing Woolworths and Aldi stores already available in the centre.
Designed by Hames Sharley Architects, the upgrade will maintain the warehouse's facade and industrial fit-out. Local artists and small businesses have also been commissioned to personalise the space for the inner west masses. The precinct will have a 'hidden' laneway entrance separate from the metro, along with a pedestrian bridge and a street level pedestrian walkway connecting the new development with the existing one. And an additional 455 parking spaces will be built, too.
If all goes well, the shopping centre upgrade should be finished by September 2020. Marrickville commuters will be happy to hear that the metro will continue its normal trading hours throughout construction, though some minor disruptions should be expected.
The first stage of the Marrickville Metro Development is slated for completion in late-2020. The shopping centre will trade as normal throughout the development.